Saturday, May 12, 2012

Honda Civic Si Coupe, 2012

 
 
 
 
 Honda Civic Si Coupe, 2012

The all-new 2012 Honda Civic represents the ninth generation of one of the company's most popular and globally recognized products. Having earned a reputation for being a fun-to-drive compact that is simultaneously fuel efficient, sporty, stylish and durable, the Honda Civic has become a beloved and relied-upon member of the worldwide transportation family. Cumulatively, the Civic has reached 8.8 million customers in the United States through 2010 since its launch as a 1973 model.

Each generation of Honda Civic has improved with a specific development theme in mind. The 2012 Civic embraces the fundamental concept of a "futuristic and distinctive compact," a direction that introduces new values that reach ahead of present-day needs and elevates the experience that Honda Civic represents. Major strides include improvements to refinement throughout, increased fuel economy on all models, the further addition of interactive technologies for personalization and convenience, along with enhancements to performance, ride and interior packaging.

The 2012 Honda Civic model lineup is comprised of:
  •     Civic Sedan (Civic DX, Civic LX, Civic EX and Civic EX-L)
  •     Civic Coupe (Civic DX, Civic LX, Civic EX and Civic EX-L)
  •     High-efficiency and value-oriented Civic HF (new)
  •     High-performance Civic Si Sedan and Civic Si Coupe
  •     Ultra-efficient Civic Hybrid (with new Lithium-Ion batteries)
  •     Ultra-clean Civic Natural Gas, previously known as Civic GX (available at qualified dealers nationwide)
The Foundation of Civic
Beneath the aerodynamic skin of every 2012 Civic is Honda's commitment to its foundational pillars of safety, fun-to-drive performance, style, comfort, convenience, durability, quality and refinement. The end result is a vehicle that's not only a smart decision when new, but can also provide long-term joy of ownership unique to this class of vehicle.

Safety - Advanced safety systems include Honda-exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure for frontal collision energy management and vehicle-to-vehicle crash compatibility, and a long list of standard safety equipment including two-row side curtain airbags, dual-stage, multiple-threshold driver's and front passenger's airbags, driver's and front passenger's side airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Brake Assist, and a new Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering system that helps the driver steer in the ideal direction to mitigate oversteer or understeer situations. Internal crash test information indicates that the new Honda Civic should achieve top marks in both the federal government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program and the independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) designation as a "TOP SAFETY PICK."

Fun to Drive - Every Honda Civic model is designed to be fun to drive, with a MacPherson strut front suspension, a multi-link rear suspension, and front and rear stabilizer bars. Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS) improves steering response at low speeds while rewarding the driver with outstanding feel at higher speeds. In addition, with EPS there is no parasitic power loss to the engine as is common with a traditional hydraulically boosted steering system - which benefits both power output and fuel economy. Standard 15-inch diameter wheels with all-season tires, 16-inch wheels on Civic EX and Civic EX-L models, and 17-inch wheels on Civic Si models (with performance-oriented summer tires available) provide a satisfying blend of ride comfort and all-weather grip. The Civic Si Sedan and Civic Si Coupe further expand the driving fun with a new, larger displacement (201 horsepower) engine and specially tuned suspension.

Distinctive, Aerodynamic Styling - As a new interpretation of the Honda Civic's iconic "one-motion" mono-form shape, the 2012 Civic is designed to convey an even more substantial, high-energy appearance. The exterior styling of both Civic Sedan and Coupe models showcases the clean-yet-powerful body lines with sleekly angled windshields, wide stances and pronounced character lines along the profile. The look of the Civic Coupe conveys an aggressive attitude with a more angular front fascia, mesh grille and a tapered rear roofline that flows smoothly into the trunk. Hidden aerodynamic features such as flat-bottom unit-body construction, precisely placed aero strakes, and other features work together to help the Honda Civic achieve excellent fuel-economy.

Comfort, Convenience and Personalization - Crisp, smart and driver focused, the new Civic's 5-passenger interior is a careful blend of form and function, with an advanced instrument layout that is unique in its class. A "smart interface" approach divides the interior into different areas, with key instrument displays located above the steering wheel. Secondary information is located lower in the area, while a third area to the driver's right groups controls that are not essential to driving. New for 2012, the intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) on all models (except Civic DX) provides a 5-inch color monitor for the display of vehicle information and audio information including album artwork (if available). Along with customizable vehicle settings, the i-MID includes the ability to upload personal wallpaper backgrounds. The Civic can be further personalized for driving with Eco Assist on all models (except Civic Si), the first time this feature has been included on any non-hybrid Honda model in America. The performance-oriented Civic Si exclusively features a new Sequential Rev-limit Indicator and a Power Monitor screen that can be displayed on the new i-MID.

Durability, Quality and Reliability - For many customers the Durability, Quality and Reliability (DQR) of the Honda Civic is what keeps them returning year after year. These fine qualities - and the resale or trade-in value they engender for the Civic - become a powerful purchase incentive. Virtually every major study of vehicle residual value has shown that the Honda Civic typically has one of the highest residual values in the industry. As an end result, a high residual or resale value makes the Civic's true cost of ownership less than many lower-priced competitors.

Powertrain
Honda has long been known for its world-class engine technology and a continuous process of innovation and improvement. At the core of Honda's powertrain engineering is the ongoing pursuit of greater performance, enhanced fuel economy and low emissions. The 2012 Civic model range embodies Honda's ongoing effort to offer a wide range of powertrain choices including gasoline, hybrid and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) that offer unique solutions for different buyers.

An advanced 140-horsepower, 1.8-liter i-VTEC engine is standard in the Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe and Civic HF, with a choice of a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission (automatic only for Civic EX-L Coupe, Civic EX and EX-L Sedans, and Civic HF). A variant of the same 1.8-liter engine develops 110 horsepower in the compressed natural gas (CNG) powered Honda Civic Natural Gas, which comes standard with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The performance-oriented Si model has a 201-horsepower, 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine, matched with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. And finally, the Civic Hybrid is powered by an ultra-efficient 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine with Integrated Motor Assist® producing 110-horsepower. This is coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe, Civic HF and Civic Natural Gas Powertrain

The Honda Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe, Civic HF and Civic Natural Gas benefit from an updated and refined version of the 1.8-liter I-4 engine that powered the previous generation Civic. The new engine has extensive changes that reduce friction, improve emissions performance and increase fuel economy.

The engine is a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder design with 16 valves, i-VTEC, and a dual-stage intake manifold. In the Civic Sedan, Civic Coupe and Civic HF, the engine produces 140 horsepower at 6300 rpm, and 128 lb-ft. of torque at 4300 rpm. In the Civic Sedan and Coupe, the 1.8-liter engine has an estimated EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 28/39 miles per gallon when equipped with automatic transmission.

Honda Civic Si Powertrain
The 2012 Civic Si is powered by a new 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that is the largest and most powerful of any Civic introduced in the United States. The dual overhead cam (DOHC) engine is an all-aluminum design that uses four valves per cylinder (16 valves total), a high-performance version of the i-VTEC system and a specially tuned high-volume intake manifold. The Civic Si produces 201 horsepower - up four horsepower from the 2.0-liter engine it replaces. The i-VTEC "intelligent" valve-control system, new friction-reducing technologies and extensive weight control measures helps the Civic Si deliver exhilarating acceleration, improved fuel economy and low exhaust emissions.

The new larger displacement engine in the Civic Si delivers peak power at a more accessible 7000 rpm compared to the previous Si engine's 7800 rpm power peak. The engine's increased displacement results in a substantial 22-percent increase in peak torque. The new 170 lb-ft rating occurs at just 4400 rpm, 1700 rpm lower than the previous engine's 139 lb-ft at 6100 rpm. Even with its increase in displacement, horsepower and torque, the 2012 Civic Si has an estimated EPA city rating of 22 mpg (up 1 mpg compared to the 2011 Civic Si) and increases highway fuel economy with a rating of 31 mpg (up 2 mpg compared to the 2011 Civic Si). In addition, the Civic Si engine meets strict Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-2) emissions standards.

The Honda Civic Si is available exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter. Designed to be compact and lightweight, the 6-speed has also been engineered to provide quick and precise shift action. The Civic Si also includes a clutch with a torsion mechanism that enhances refinement in terms of engagement and feel.

Honda Civic Hybrid Powertrain
The newest-generation Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system fitted to the Civic Hybrid uses a gasoline engine as the primary source of power while an electric motor provides additional power and electricity regeneration capability. The new IMA system consists of a larger 1.5-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine connected to a larger, more powerful electric motor and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). A new Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery pack is used to capture and store electricity for the upgraded 23-horsepower electric motor. The new Lithium-Ion battery is more powerful, lighter and more compact than the nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery it replaces.

Together, the gasoline engine and electric motor team to produce 110 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 127 lb-ft of torque at 1000-3500 rpm. Compared to the previous generation Civic Hybrid, the new Civic Hybrid has the same peak horsepower, but achieves it at 500 fewer rpm. The new Hybrid has gained 4 lb-ft of torque, and it is spread over a wider rpm range (between 1000 rpm to 3500 rpm) for improved performance during normal city driving.

During acceleration, the engine or the engine and electric motor propel the vehicle. During sustained cruising, the gasoline engine and/or the electric motor can individually propel the vehicle. During braking, the gasoline engine deactivates and the electric motor acts as generator to replenish the Li-Ion battery pack. When the vehicle is at a stop, the engine can enter an idle-stop mode to conserve fuel and reduce emissions - and the engine remains off until the brake pedal is released.

Compared to the previous Honda Civic Hybrid, the fifth-generation Honda IMA powertrain provides improved acceleration at highway speeds, while simultaneously delivering a combined city/highway EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 44 mpg - an increase of 3 mpg from the previous model.

Body
The new 2012 Honda Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe are the most aerodynamically and aggressively styled models in the model's history - and also the most functional and versatile in how most Civic customers like to use their cars. As in past years, both 5-passenger sedan and 5-passenger coupe body styles are available. The sedan design is sophisticated and efficient, while the coupe is more dramatic and exciting. Both are highly aerodynamic, including a sleek windshield angle with narrow A-pillars (and thinner C-pillars in the Coupe) for excellent outward visibility, numerous under-vehicle aerodynamic aids, and even low rolling-resistance tires on all models except Civic Si.

Apart from the headlights, hood and front fenders, no visible exterior body panels, lights, glass, grille or bumpers are shared between the Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe. Differences between models include aggressive front grille, front and rear fascias and other elements for the Civic Si Coupe and Civic Si Sedan, and extensive aerodynamic aids for the high fuel economy Civic HF. However beneath the skin, the underlying chassis construction is the same between the Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe, except that at 105.1 inches, the wheelbase of the Civic Sedan is two inches longer than that of the Civic Coupe.

The Design
Though roomier inside than previous models, the 2012 Civic Sedan adds a sophisticated flair while retaining the Coupe's dramatic styling character. Its four doors provide improved utility, with excellent ingress and egress for all passengers. In back, the trunk lid gracefully meets the rear window and seamlessly ties in with the overall styling of the car. Standard are 15-inch diameter steel wheels with full wheel covers, 15-inch aluminum wheels for the Civic HF, 16-inch aluminum wheels for the Civic EX and Civic EX-L models, and 17-inch aluminum wheels for the Civic Si.

Civic Coupe Design
Everything about Honda Civic Coupe says this is a driver's car, with the short, wide front fascia generating an aggressive overall look. Adding to the Civic's distinctly sporty and dynamic flavor are wide, angular headlights, a bold grille, and fog lamp openings in the lower fascia. A wedge design continues along the Civic Coupe body side, with the hood, windshield and cabin all forming decisive character lines that create a strong sense of motion. The high rear deck further reinforces the Coupe's dynamic wedge styling, while a functional rear lip spoiler and 16-inch aluminum wheels on Civic EX and Civic EX-L models (17-inch wheels on the Civic Si) add to its clear sporting intentions.

Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure
The Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure is a pioneering Honda unit-body construction technology. Introduced to Civic in the 2006 model, it increases the body's ability to disperse crash energy in a frontal collision and is anticipated to help deliver top safety ratings.

Rigid Unit-Body Construction and Energy-Absorbing Crush Zones
The Civic's aerodynamic unit-body structure plays a strong role in helping both the coupe and sedan achieve their expected high fuel-economy and projected top safety ratings, but it also contributes to a smooth, quiet ride and a fun-to-drive character. A rigid body allows for noise and other disturbances to be more efficiently isolated by bushings and other dampers throughout the vehicle.

Increased Use of High-Strength Steel
Both the Honda Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe feature a rigid and lightweight unit-body design made possible by increased use of high-strength steel. The 2012 Civic Sedan now uses 55 percent high-strength steel, compared to 50 percent in the previous generation. This contributes to a 7-percent reduction in body weight compared to 2011 Civic Sedan. Although the body structure is now lighter, static and dynamic rigidity are 10 percent better.

Aerodynamic Enhancements
The 2012 Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe are just as aerodynamically efficient as their appearance suggests, resulting in improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, improved handling at higher speeds and lower levels of interior noise. The improvements are the result of extensive modeling and testing conducted during the design process. Examples:
  •     A guide under the front bumper directs the flow of air into the engine compartment for cooling.
  •     Lightweight plastic parts under the engine bay, the fuel tank and parts of the rear underbody enhance airflow.
  •     Front spoiler and strakes ahead of the front and rear tires help direct air flow around the tires and wheel wells.
  •     A new flat under-floor significantly improves aerodynamic efficiency by helping air to move over, around and under the vehicle - resulting in a significant 3.4-percent lower coefficient of drag as compared to the 2011 Civic.
  •     Low-drag side mirrors reduce wind noise by minimizing turbulence (Civic EX and Civic EX-L models also include heated side mirrors).
Multi-Reflector Halogen Headlights
All 2012 Honda Civic models are equipped with multi-reflector halogen headlights with an auto-off feature (Auto On/Off on EX-L, Hybrid and Si) for confident nighttime driving, along with a dynamic and dramatic appearance. The auto-off feature automatically turns off the headlights when the key is removed from the vehicle. Inboard mounted halogen high beams offer further nighttime driving confidence with a crisp, bright and focused light beam. The halogen high beams serve double-duty as the daytime running lights (DRL) by operating at a lower voltage. All Civic models include a headlights-on reminder.

Meanwhile Honda Civic Si Sedan and Coupe models add fog lights located in openings below the front bumper. Integrated fog lights are likewise available as a dealer-installed accessory on other 2012 Civic models.

LED Brake Lights on Civic Hybrid
The 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid's taillight system features attention-grabbing LED illumination for the brake lights and soft glowing surface lighting for the taillights. The sculpted, 3-dimensional look of the units adds a distinctive and technical styling element to the rear view of the Civic. Additionally, LED lighting uses less power and longer service life compared to traditional tungsten light bulbs, which is consistent with the vehicle's emphasis on efficiency.

Power Windows
All 2012 Honda Civic models (except for Civic DX) feature power windows with auto-reverse. All trim levels (except the Civic DX) also feature an auto up/down driver's window for added convenience.

One-Touch Power Moonroof with Tilt Feature
Civic EX, Civic EX-L and Civic Si models have one-touch power moonroof actuation with tilt feature that will open or close with one touch of the switch. The moonroof's thin construction allows for maximum headroom and improved comfort. Also included is a sliding sunshade that automatically opens with the moonroof, and the shade can be closed to block sunlight. An auto-reverse feature is built into the moonroof operation.

Security System with Remote Entry
Remote entry and remote trunk entry systems are now standard on all 2012 Civic models except for DX. Using a wave key with integrated remote buttons, all doors can be locked with one touch of the LOCK button. Pressing UNLOCK once unlocks the driver's door, while pressing it twice unlocks all doors. The trunk can also be unlocked by pressing a separate trunk button. The system has an operating range of up to 50 feet.
 
Cargo Area
Another strength of the new 2012 Civic Coupe and Sedan is impressive storage capacity. The Civic Sedan offers 12.5 cu-ft of storage space (12.1 cu-ft. for Sedan EX-L), exceeding the 12.0 cu-ft trunk volume of the previous generation - an improvement of 0.5 cu-ft or 4.2-percent. The Civic Coupe trunk offers 11.6 cu-ft of storage, a slight increase over the previous model's 11.5 cu-ft. Folding the second-row seatback yields additional room for the storage of bulky items. Civic Hybrid and Civic Natural Gas have a fixed rear seatback.

Conveniently placed latches enable customers to lower the fold-down rear seatback from the trunk. The Civic EX and Civic EX-L and Civic Si models add even more convenience with 60/40 split fold-down rear seatbacks, which allow simultaneous passenger seating and cargo storage.

Exterior Colors
The 2012 Honda Civic offers a dynamic color palette that adds character and boldness to the entire model range. All-new colors for the 2012 Civic Sedan include Dyno Blue Pearl, Cool Mist Metallic and Crimson Pearl. While on the 2012 Civic Coupe, Dyno Blue Pearl and Cool Mist Metallic are new additions to the color lineup. Civic Si Coupe and Civic Si Sedan models add a unique Sunburst Orange Pearl, while the Civic Hybrid comes in Green Opal Metallic. All the new colors change in appearance depending on sunlight conditions, further amplifying the Civic's dramatic bodylines.

Chassis
The 2012 Civic chassis was developed to maximize driving enjoyment as well as passenger comfort and safety. The chassis features Honda's highly developed MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems, along with Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering for excellent steering performance and improved efficiency. Regardless of whether it is a versatile Civic Sedan or Coupe, sporty Civic Si, or efficient Civic Hybrid, clean Civic Natural Gas or value-oriented Civic HF model, every 2012 Honda offers a high level of refinement, confident handling and a fun driving experience - while also providing excellent safety.
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Jeep Wrangler, 2012

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  •  Jeep Wrangler, 2012

Jeep introduces the all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 petrol engine that  equipped on the 2012 Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. 3.6-liter V-6 powertrain provides more fuel efficiency, improved on-road driving dynamics and refinement, more power and more torque. Petrol powertrain now adds upgraded automatic transmission for refined shifting and greater performance. Dramatically improved on-road performance combines with even more off-road prowess. New petrol engine joins 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine for European lineup.

In Europe, the all-new 3.6-liter petrol powertrain will be introduced on Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport, Sahara and Rubicon trim levels starting November 2011.

3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 Engine
Compact and lightweight, the all-aluminum 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is more than 40 kg (90 lbs) lighter than the previous 3.8-liter V-6 engine that was constructed with a cast-iron block. The Pentastar engine is extremely quiet, constructed with a high-pressure, die-cast aluminum block fitted with cast-iron bore liners and aluminum cylinder heads. The engine also has been designed to meet all known future worldwide emission standards and is currently Euro 5 certified.

The 3.6-liter V-6 engine is manufactured at the Trenton engine plant in Michigan (USA).

Transmissions
The A580 automatic transmission benefits Jeep Wrangler as much as the new petrol engine, with more refined shifting and gear selection. By increasing the number of speeds, the transmission allows the engine to operate in a more efficient RPM range, which helps increase fuel economy. More speeds also enable the engine to remain in the torque curve, increasing acceleration. The new Wrangler (two-door) boasts a 37-percent improvement in 0 - 100 km/h time, which is now 8.1 seconds. Also, a lower first-gear ratio in the new automatic transmission gives the Wrangler more off-road capability via a lower overall crawl ratio.

Electronic Range Select is standard for all automatic-equipped Jeep Wrangler models. The electronic stability control (ESC) also has been optimized to perform effortlessly with the new 3.6-liter V-6 engine.

With the proven NSG 370 six-speed manual transmission, engineered for the newest Jeep Wrangler are a new clutch housing, flywheel and long-travel damper clutch. The improvements are a result of the adaptation of the transmission to the 3.6-liter V-6 engine.
The five-speed automatic transmission is produced in Kokomo, Indiana (ITP2), and the six-speed manual transmission is produced in Gaggenau, Germany.

Engineering
The Jeep Wrangler delivers unmatched off-road capability with legendary four-wheel drive and is produced with more than seven decades of 4x4 engineering experience behind it. Wrangler continues to offer a body-on-frame design, front and rear five-link suspension system, live axles and electronic lockers.

Jeep Wrangler now offers a choice of two transmissions: a six-speed manual and a five-speed automatic gearbox.

Along with a new powertrain, Jeep engineers have thoroughly optimized ride and sound characteristics of the Jeep Wrangler's body-on-frame design. New motor and transmission adaptations and revised suspension calibrations contribute to overall improvements that are immediately evident both on- and off-road.

The interior sound quality is greatly improved through refinements in the powertrain mounting system, noise damping in the firewall and the inclusion of the first Jeep Wrangler engine cover to effectively isolate the cabin from noises emulating from the engine and road surfaces.

On the outside, engine noise is barely perceptible at idle. With the new 3.6-liter V-6 engine, all accessories are mounted directly to the engine with no accessory brackets. This helps ensure that all accessories, including the power steering pump, alternator and air conditioning compressor, are anchored firmly and less susceptible to vibration and noise.
Shocks have also been retuned and are designed for optimum balance between advanced on-road handling and rugged off-road capability.

Axles and Transfer Cases
The Jeep Wrangler is now available with more axle gear ratios, allowing customers to optimize fuel economy and/or vehicle capability. Wrangler is available with 3.21, 3.73 or 4.10 ratios depending on model. Also, Jeep Wrangler offers towing capability up to 2,500 kg.

The capable driveline of the Sport and Sahara models includes a Dana 30 front axle and Dana 44 rear axle. The Command-Trac NV241 part-time, two-speed transfer case features a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio.

The Rubicon model features heavy-duty Dana 44 front and rear axles and the Rock-Trac NV241 two-speed transfer case with a 4.0:1 low-range gear ratio. Rubicon also includes electric front and rear locking differentials and disconnecting front sway bar, taking Jeep Wrangler to the highest level of capability.

2.8-liter CRD Engine
The all-new 3.6-liter V-6 engine joins the new 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine with fuel-saving Stop/Start technology. The diesel engine provides power of 200 hp DIN (147 kW), a 13-percent improvement over the prior 2.8-liter diesel engine. Torque for the engine comes in at 410 N•m (302 lb-ft) with its six-speed manual transmission and 460 N•m (339 lb-ft) with its five-speed automatic transmission.

The Jeep Wrangler's diesel engine, when paired with the manual transmission, incorporates Stop/Start technology - the first application of this technology on a Chrysler Group vehicle. Stop/Start improves fuel efficiency and reduces CO2 emissions by managing the amount of time the engine runs. With Stop/Start, the engine is shut off when the vehicle is stopped, the shift gear is in Neutral and the clutch is released. The engine then restarts automatically when the clutch pedal is depressed. Drivers can deactivate the technology via a button on the dashboard, and an icon displays in the instrument panel to indicate the Stop/Start status.
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Friday, May 11, 2012

Porsche 911 Carrera, 2013

 
 
 
 
 Porsche 911 Carrera, 2013

The new generation Porsche 911 Carrera is emerging from one of the biggest development steps in the long history of this classic sports car. Almost 90 per cent of all components have been redesigned or redeveloped. With its all-new lightweight body, further drivetrain efficiencies and new suspension systems, the Coupé offers the driver improved Porsche Intelligent Performance. This manifests itself in yet further enhanced driving dynamics, up to 16 per cent lower fuel consumption and emissions combined with even greater everyday practicality.

The Porsche 911 Carrera's design and proportions have developed in step with the technology. One of the most pronounced points of differentiation is the 100 millimetre (3.94 inch) longer wheelbase.The body on the other hand is only 56 millimetres (2.20 inch) longer overall lengthwise, the overhangs being shortened by 32 millimetres (1.26 inch) at the front and twelve millimetres (0.47 inch) at the rear. The Carrera's roof line is around seven millimetres lower than that of its predecessor and around six millimetres for the Carrera S. The maximum headroom remains virtually unchanged. For Coupés with a sunroof, which for the first time is of the electric slide/tilt type, headroom has even increased by 15 millimetres. With an overall length of just under 4.5 metres (176.81 inch) and a maximum width of approximately 1.8 metres (71.18 inch) the 911 Carrera remains the most compact sports car in its class.

The Porsche 911 Carrera's stylistic evolution is apparent from every angle. Viewed from the side, new styling, larger alloy wheels and the more convex windscreen contribute to the even jauntier, more coupé-like character. Typical of the revised, wider front end are the new headlights and larger side air intakes. The wider, variably extending rear spoiler emphasises the new 911 Carrera models' greater power output. Together with other aerodynamic optimisations, it also ensures significantly lower lift while retaining an equally good cd value. Redesigned, narrower LED technology rear lights complete the rear profile.

The Porsche 911 Carrera sets new standards in Porsche Intelligent Performance. The innovative aluminium-steel lightweight body, combined with a raft of new components and functions, benefits efficiency and driving dynamics in equal measure.

The new 911 Carrera is the first passenger car in the world to feature a seven-speed manual transmission as standard. It is based on the module of the optional seven-speed Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK). The close ratio of the first six gears affords the driver outstanding acceleration capability, with the seventh gear's quasi overdrive attributes offering further scope for fuel economy.

The Porsche 911 Carrera is the first sports car that Porsche has equipped with an auto start/stop function. The system can save up to 0.6 litres per 100 kilometres based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). The auto stop/start function is married with both the PDK and manual transmission as standard. The joint thermal management system for engine and transmission and on-board electrical system recuperation reduce the new 911 generation's fuel consumption by a further 0.35 l/100 km. As the new cooling design dispenses with ventilation openings in the underbody, it also affords aerodynamic advantages, which are of benefit to performance.

The "sailing" function, making its very first appearance in a sports car with the optional PDK transmission, can save up to one litre of fuel for every 100 kilometres in everyday driving. If the driver takes his foot off the accelerator, depending on the driving situation, the engine is disengaged from the transmission; the 911 Carrera continues on its way with the engine idling. Especially at higher speeds, this function taps additional potential fuel economies.

In the Porsche 911 Carrera, optimised fuel consumption is complemented by Porsche-style downsizing: The 3.4-litre engine delivers more power from a smaller displacement than its predecessor with a displacement of 3.6 litres. That means the Porsche 911 Carrera with PDK is the first Porsche sports car to make it below the 200 g/km CO2 emissions threshold.

With its completely revamped suspension featuring numerous redeveloped components, the Porsche 911 Carrera raises the driving dynamics bar yet another notch. The longer wheelbase alone, combined with the wider track width at the front, generates an entirely different geometry with more sure-footed tracking and roll stability at high longitudinal and cornering speeds.

With the new electro-mechanical power steering, the Porsche engineers managed to develop a system that combines Porsche's trademark precision and feedback with superior consumption and comfort for the very first time. As the system only requires power when steering, the electro-mechanical system saves at least 0.1 litres per 100 kilometres.

The new active Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), available for the Carrera S as an optional extra, expands the lateral dynamics boundaries yet again by a sizeable margin. PDCC is an active roll compensation system that detects the very instant the vehicle begins to roll when cornering, eliminating it almost entirely. The system makes for greater agility in every speed regime, improved cornering and stable load change behaviour. PDCC therefore represents a new highlight in terms of driving dynamics.

Making its debut in the Porsche 911 Carrera S, Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV), featured as standard, ensures even better tracking and tracking stability, together with reduced sensitivity to load changes. Together with a seven-speed manual transmission, this system comprises a mechanical rear differential lock and variable torque distribution to the rear axle. In vehicles fitted with the Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK), the even higher-performance PTV Plus comes with the electronically controlled, fully variable, rear differential lock. PTV or PTV Plus further improves agility and steering precision by means of selective braking interventions applied to the inside rear wheel. PTV and PTV Plus are also available for the 911 Carrera as an optional extra.

To complement the Porsche 911 Carrera's new exterior, the Porsche designers created an interior, the architecture of which takes its cue from the Porsche Carrera GT. The driver is now even more closely integrated with the cockpit thanks to the centre console rising up to the front with the high-mounted gear lever or gear selector located especially close to the steering wheel in typical motorsport fashion. 

The most important function and settings buttons for operating the vehicle are grouped in logical clusters on the centre console. Centrally located in the completely redeveloped dashboard, a larger seven-inch touch screen is used to control a rich array of functions. Naturally, the classic, established Porsche touches, such as the five round instruments with the centrally located rev counter and the ignition lock to the left of the steering wheel are also to be found in the new model. Both driver and front passenger are seated on newly developed sports seats with electric four-way adjustment. Additional sports seat versions with 14 and 18-way adjustment are also available as an option.

The new Porsche 911 generation made its debut in two versions
911 Carrera: 350 hp (257kW) 3.4-litre boxer engine; rear-wheel drive, seven-speed manual transmission, optional seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK); acceleration 0 - 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.8 seconds, with PDK in 4.6 seconds (4.4 seconds with Sport Chrono Package); top speed 289 km/h (179.6 mph), with PDK 287 km/h (178.3 mph); fuel consumption (NEDC) 9.0 l/100 km, CO2 212 g/km; with PDK 8.2 l/100 km; CO2 194 g/km.

911 Carrera S: 400 hp (294 kW) 3.8-litre boxer engine; rear-wheel drive, seven-speed manual transmission, optional seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK); acceleration 0 - 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.5 seconds, with PDK in 4.3 seconds (4.1 seconds with Sport Chrono Package); top speed 304 km/h (188.9 mph), with PDK 302 km/h (187.7mph); fuel consumption (NEDC) 9.5 l/100 km; CO2 224 g/km; with PDK 8.7 l/100 km; CO2 205 g/km.
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Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS, 2012


 
 
 
  • Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS, 2012

The Porsche AG is widening the top end of its Carrera model line and pairing up each of the two 911 Carrera GTS with an all-wheel drive twin. That means that the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS Coupé and Cabriolet will combine the 408 hp (300 kW) top of the range engine of the Carrera GTS family with the intelligent, all-wheel drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM). Driving dynamics are not the only source of attraction. Economics are as well. Thanks to Porsche Intelligent Performance the new all-wheel 911s consume no more than the equivalent Carrera 4S version, the Coupé remains at 11.0 l/100 km (25.7 mpg imp.) and the Cabriolet at 11.2 l/100 km (25.2 mpg imp.) respectively based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). Moreover both of them boast an even more comprehensive standard equipment package compared with the Carrera 4S models.

The Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS power unit has its origins in the 3.8-litre, six-cylinder Carrera S engine. A wholesale revamping of the intake duct added 23 hp (17 kW), taking the power output to 408 hp (300 kW) at 7,300 rpm. The special aspiration system not only improves peak power output but flexibility and power development as well thanks to a more generous torque curve in the lower and middle engine speed range. 320 Newton metres kick in from as low as 1,500 rpm; the six-cylinder engine delivers its rated torque of 420 Nm in the broad engine speed range from 4,200 rpm and 5,600 rpm. 
The sports exhaust system fitted as standard ensures a distinctly sporty sound. It invests the new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS with an unmistakable acoustic signature and the rear view of its tail pipe with its unique black surface design lends it a unique character.
At full power the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS Coupé sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds, the Cabriolet in 4.8 seconds. The Carrera 4 GTS is fitted as standard with a six-speed manual transmission but the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) seven-speed is available as an option if desired. The PDK shaves an additional 0.2 seconds respectively off the acceleration times from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph).

In the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS as well, PTM all-wheel drive stands for Porsche's typical driving pleasure with even more driving stability, traction and agile handling. The PTM achieves this by directing the optimal proportion of the engine torque to the front wheels via a multiple-plate clutch. What's more, just how single-mindedly the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS is designed for driving dynamics is evident from the use of a standard limited-slip differential. This mechanical rear differential lock contributes to the driving dynamics of the electronically controlled all-wheel drive system.

The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS models with all-wheel drive differ in points of detail from earlier variants with rear-wheel drive: In addition to the type name on the doors and rear lid, the distinguishing characteristic of all models with all-wheel drive is the additional reflective stripe between the taillights. What the Carrera GTS models have in common is the 911's wide body, otherwise reserved for the all-wheel version of the 911s, and the rear axle track width that goes with it. In numerous other details as well the GTS models differ both visually and technically from the other Carrera models. For example, they run on 19 inch RS Spyder wheels in black with central locking and gloss-lathed rim flanges fitted with 305/30 ZR 19 tyres on the rear axle.
 
The visual features include the Sport-Design front apron with black painted spoiler lip and special side skirts, also in black. Driver and passenger are accommodated on sports seats. Typical of the GTS, the emphatically sporty black Alcantara covering on centre panels, steering wheel rim, gearshift and handbrake lever, door handles and door storage box lid and extension are offered as standard in addition to a range of leather upholstery options.

The Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS Coupé, including country-specific equipment and VAT at 19 per cent, is offered in Germany at a price of 111,956 euro, the Cabriolet costs 122,071 euro. Both models sale in Germany from July 2011.
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